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Photo caption: Team silver medallist Karl Cook (USA) riding Caracole de la Roque in the individual Jumping final at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games on 6 August 2024. © FEI/Benjamin Clark
Santa Anita Park, located in proximity to the Los Angeles city area, has been confirmed as the venue of the equestrian events of the Olympic Games Los Angeles 2028 (LA28).
“Santa Anita Park will be a spectacular venue for the LA28 Olympic equestrian events,” FEI President Ingmar De Vos said.
“The FEI has very fond memories of Santa Anita, which had hosted the equestrian events at the 1984 Olympic Games. The venue is set to offer a breathtaking stage for all the Olympic equestrian competitions and the proximity to LA City will undoubtedly attract many spectators to Santa Anita. We look forward to continuing our cooperation with LA28 to deliver spectacular equestrian events at the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.”
“I would like to thank the FEI on behalf of the IOC for the active engagement in all the discussions regarding the venue,” IOC Sports Director Kit McConnell said. “We have created a strong partnership with the Organising Committee and the city of Los Angeles, which enjoys the full support of the local equestrian community.”
"We have the utmost confidence in the LA2028 Organizing Committee, and we anticipate exceptional equestrian sport will take place at this special legacy venue from the 1984 Olympic Games. We are also extremely pleased that the IOC has confirmed the athlete quotas across the disciplines for 2028 and they remain unchanged from 2024,” said Bill Moroney, Chief Executive Officer of US Equestrian.
Santa Anita features an on-course veterinary clinic and has hosted some of the major Thoroughbred events in the USA including the Breeders Cup. The famous champion thoroughbred racehorse Seabiscuit won his last race at Santa Anita in 1940. The facility also hosts a CSI3* as well as a FEI Jumping World Cup™ Qualifier CSI5*-W, which this year will take place in November.
Santa Anita covers 130Ha (320 acres) and includes a 340m-long (1,100-foot) grandstand that seats 26,000 spectators. The track infield area, which resembles a park with picnic tables and large trees, can accommodate a crowd of 50,000. The Park has 61 barns that can house more than 2,000 horses.
The venue for the Para Equestrian events will be announced at a later date following the review and approval of the International Paralympic Committee Governing Board.
Note to editors
The LA28 Olympic Games will take place from 14 to 30 July 2028 whereas the Paralympics are scheduled from 15 to 27 August 2028.
Photo caption: Vue of the cross country at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. © FEI/Benjamin Clark
Jumping, Dressage and Eventing – the Olympic equestrian disciplines since 1912 - will be part of the competition at the Los Angeles 2028 (LA28) Olympic Games. The equestrian programme will consist of six medal events: a Team and an Individual medal event in each of the three disciplines. Equestrian retains the 200 quota places it had in Paris in 2024 and the breakdown by discipline remains unchanged, i.e. 75 for Jumping, 60 for Dressage, and 65 for Eventing.
The decision was taken by the Executive Board of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), which met today.
“We are extremely pleased with today’s IOC decision,” FEI President Ingmar De Vos said.
“The Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games were a historic success for equestrian sport, which proved very popular with the live crowds and TV and online viewers worldwide. It’s a great news that our numbers remain unchanged and we are looking forward to delivering exciting sport at the same level of excellence.”
The qualification systems for the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games were discussed at the recent FEI Sports Forum. The proposals will be put forward for approval by the FEI General Assembly 2025 and will afterwards be provided to the IOC for final review and sign off. The summary of discussions and the presentation made during the session dedicated to the LA28 Olympic qualification systems are available here.
Key facts and figures
With three disciplines and 200 quota places, equestrian will be one of the 31 sports on the programme of the LA28 Olympic Games. The six medal equestrian events will be part of the 25 mixed events across all sports and the 351 events overall in LA28.
The LA28 programme maintains the core athlete quota of 10,500 with an extra 698 allocated for the five sports proposed by the LA28 Organising Committee (Baseball/Softball, Cricket, Flag Football, Lacrosse and Squash).
A record breaking 50 nations participated in equestrian at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. The number of nations in Paris 2024 was 49. The number of nations competing in equestrian in Los Angeles in 1984 had been 30.
Equestrian sport is the only Olympic sport in which men and women compete as equals from grass roots all the way up to Olympic level.
The event programme for LA28 was developed based on the requests presented by the International Sports Federations to the IOC. The decision from the IOC EB followed the recommendation from the Olympic Programme Commission and the principles approved in 2023: gender equal, globally appealing, cost and complexity conscious, athlete focused.
Additional information on the full LA28 Olympic programme is available here.
Photo caption: Olympic champion Christian Kukuk (GER) riding Checker 47 during the Individual Jumping Final of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games on 6 August 2024. © FEI/Benjamin Clark
Julien Epaillard (FRA) and his much-admired homebred 12-year-old gelding Donatello d’Auge emerged victorious once again in Basel (SUI) this evening as they were crowned the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ 2025 Final champions. The pair, who won the cities’ Longines FEI World Cup™ qualifier back in January, dominated St.Jakobshalle’s technically demanding confines once again this week as they took the coveted title in emphatic style, having claimed victory in the opening day’s speed class to take an early lead and maintain pole position throughout the contest.
Epaillard employed some daring tactics along the way, forgoing his place in day two’s jump-off (and some considerable prize-money) in preference of conserving the energy of his equine partner, having worked out that he would still hold onto his lead without contesting Friday’s second round against the clock. This strategy clearly paid off, as Donatello d’Auge returned in round one to produce a crucial clear round that saw them hold a three-fault advantage with just one round remaining.
“Today I felt him a little tired already in the first round. We had a little rub, but he has a super head and with this he always wants to help me. Then he was maybe more fresh (sic) for the second round.”
He explained, smiling quietly and nodding in agreement, when it was suggested that he must be pleased with his decision to sacrifice a round, and a potential second win, on Friday in favour of increasing his chances of lifting his first World Cup title.
Fellow countryman Kevin Staut, Ben Maher (GBR) and Lillie Keenan (USA) were the athletes poised perilously close to Epaillard, less than a fence in arrears before today’s second and final round. Of the 20 combinations qualified for this final round, only four delivered a faultless performance. Such was the intensity of the pressure at the sharp end of competition however, that none of these were posted by the top eight athletes in the overall standings at this stage.
Three fences on the floor for Keenan put an end to her podium dreams but took nothing away from her eye-catching performances in her first Longines FEI World Cup™ Final this week with the relatively inexperienced Kick on. Staut returned with four faults guaranteeing himself a podium position with his final score of seven faults, albeit gifting Maher and Epaillard some breathing room. When Maher’s Point Break breathed on the final element of the ornate Cherry Blossom combination, he too completed on seven faults and the door was left ajar for Epaillard as he knew he could afford to have one fence down, but not two.
Donatello d’Auge, undoubtedly benefitting from the energy conserved by not jumping-off on Friday, returned to the stadium once more where an enthusiastic and knowledgeable audience were perched on the edge of their seats waiting for history unfold. The little gelding with the heart of lion matched the enthusiasm of his pilot whilst demonstrating his incredible athleticism and immaculate technique. Approaching the final line, the score board read zero (0), but so many rounds had fallen apart here on in. An extra stride around the corner from fence nine to ten made the three strides down to 11a a little flat. Despite their best efforts, a rub here saw the partnership notch up their first fault of the week.
With two jumping efforts remaining, one being the final towering 1.65m vertical, and no fences in hand, 6,500 spectators held their breath in anticipation. With nerves of steel and riding on a partnership built on a lifetime of trust, Epaillard and ‘Donny’ kept their composure to sail over the final two formidable obstacles to incur no further fault and seal their first ever World Cup Final victory and with it, secure France’s first Longines FEI World Cup™ Final title in 21 years.
Four days’ worth of pressure and a flood of emotions were released by the Frenchman in the moments after breaking the finish beams to see his name up in lights as Longines FEI World Cup™ Final 2025 champion.
Of his only fault of the week Epaillard told: “I totally lost concentration before the last line. After the red oxer (fence nine), I thought ‘I’m close I’m close’ (to victory) and I lost concentration and came too deep to the double. I think if I helped him a little bit more, I could have jumped a double clear, but OK in any case, it was OK like this!” He exhaled; relief written all over his face.
“I need to take experience from this mistake- I’m still green!”
Julien Epaillard
(FRA)
he added jokingly.
Maher was philosophical in his reflection of his performance over the week and final result. “I’m a little disappointed. A small mistake from myself on Friday meant I didn’t get it done enough early on and put myself on the back foot with no room for error. Point Break deserved a little more from me, maybe a little more support going in there. But I can’t ask any more of the horse. Today he jumped perhaps the best he’s ever jumped- fluent and confident. It just didn’t go our way in the end. Julien is an incredible competitor and hard to beat on any given day, so congratulations to him” he added graciously
Staut was overjoyed with his horse and his second Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Final podium finish, despite coming tantalisingly close to victory. “I can’t be sad because it was a really great competition, Visconti gave everything and it’s a Frenchman who is winning!” He reflected contentedly.
“It’s also two podiums for France at this final which is really great. We’d have signed for that at the beginning of the week!”
Staut demonstrated not only what an outstanding athlete he is, but also what a sportsman and incredible ambassador for Equestrian Sport he also is. After heaping praise on his incredible equine partner, he brought everyone’s focus onto what a spectacle the competition had been in its own right and in its exemplary display of showcasing the highest standards of incredible horse welfare, directly reflected in the standard of performances from all athletes throughout the week. None more so than his own Visconti.
“At 16-years-old she is still improving which gives me huge satisfaction. We’re always talking about horses, enjoying and being happy doing this sport and in Visconti, we have a great example of that. At the end of the Championship, she is still really there to fight and when it’s really important, she’s not making mistakes” he highlighted, indicating that the longevity of her career was testament to the fantastic facilities offered by such events and meticulous welfare measures implemented by athletes, the FEI and show organisers.
“This week I’m so happy for Equestrian Sport in general. We have to thank the organisers, course designers and sponsors who make this type of show possible. The sport we’ve seen this week is incredible. It’s wonderful when it’s done how it was this week”.
Kevin Staut
(FRA)
Swiss course builder Gérard Lachat received high praise for his work throughout five rounds of Championship competiton. This afternoon he set two beautifully presented courses featuring a number of intricately designed fences depicting various elements of Swiss culture and traditions. Lechat’s tracks were strong but fair tests throughout, requiring careful planning, ultimate focus and concentration from athletes and an unfaltering rhythm from combinations as they featured a series of related obstacles from start to finish with little opportunity to regroup or take a breath, but never punishing the less experienced combinations.
Kevin Staut summed up the sentiments surely shared by all athletes, officials, organisers and spectators alike as he spoke: “We have to be proud of what was produced this week. From my side Visconti is 16-years-old and still improving, so it’s the best example of what horses can deliver. We have to be proud of all of us and what was done this week.”
Julien Epaillard, still on cloud nine after pulling off a dream result, highlighted the huge team behind achieving results like this as he humbly directed praise on his staff, family and of course his equine superstar.
“My horse is fantastic. It’s a dream for all the staff working with me and my family. We work every day for this. There’s a lot of people around this performance so I’d like to thank everybody”.
Julien Epaillard
(FRA)
Reflecting on the pressure of leading from the outset he told: “It was a difficult week. Not every week can be like this as it’s too much pressure!”, he concluded, before adding his final thoughts after his third victory in Switzerland’s St, Jakobshalle this afternoon. “I love it here… maybe I might buy an apartment in Basel!”, he laughed.
Long renowned globally for his prowess against the clock, Julien Epaillard has today proven his versatility once again and cemented himself firmly into the Equestrian history books as not only a proven Championship athlete, but as the newly crowned Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Champion.
Image: FEI / Ben Clark
In a day for the record books, three nations took top honours at the J. Safra Sarasin FEI Vaulting World Cup™ Final. French, German and Italian colours flew high with Quentin Jabet (FRA), Kathrin Meyer (GER) and Pas-de-Deux, Rebecca Greggio and Davide Zanella (ITA) excelling in the St. Jakobshalle in Basel (SUI).
Tensions rose and the anticipation grew as the Male competition thrilled the audience. Final debutant, Quentin Jabet blew the competition away with his characteristic style, becoming the only competitor to score over nine points, setting a new FEI Vaulting World Cup™ Final record in its current format, a score of 9.180. In a class above the rest, he elegantly performed with new combination Goldjunge and Jaqueline Schönteich earning a perfect 10 from the artistic judge. “Competing with German teammates is different than French. I like it a lot. I found a good horse, with a good lunger”, he said.
Germany’s Julian Wilfling improved on his round one placing, engaging emotionally in his artistic concept, his dynamic Free test was well received by the judges, boosting him into second place with Aragorn 102 and Alexander Zebrak and scoring 8.683. Thomas Brüsewitz brought a different energy to the ring. Demonstrating an extremely high level of difficulty and intricate transitions his Freestyle was the second best of the day just 0.18 behind Jabet. He was hot on the heels of compatriot Wilfling and rounded out the podium with Maik Husmann and equine partner William II Z, 8.671.
Defending Champion Jannik Heiland (GER) had to accept the fifth place with his new combination, Rey Rubino and Lars Hansen, finishing just behind Davide Zanella (ITA) who landed in fourth.
In the Individual Female category, history maker - Germany’s Kathrin Meyer - continued her domination. She became the first female to consecutively win three titles and smashed the previous record score, breaking the nine-point barrier with 9.023 and showing her skill, this time with Capitain Claus OLD and Gesa Bührig. Showing her exercises with more power than her competitors, she continues to push her limits.
“It’s amazing for me to keep that success over three seasons now, to keep my level and still be able to continue growing”
Kathrin Meyer
(GER)
Emotionally, the second and third places went to Switzerland. In her swan song, and in a city incredibly close to her heart, Ilona Hannich performed with Rayo de La Luz and Monika Winkler-Bischofberger. She immersed herself fully in her freestyle concept, based around her grief after her father’s suicide seven years ago, drawing on true emotion while executing incredible vaulting. “It’s really special because my father lived here in Basel, and he would be so proud of me competing here in this stadium” she said. She took second place 8.895.
Tears of passion were also to be found with teammate Nadja Büttiker, who shared a horse with Hannich. Also choosing to end her competitive career in Basel her emotion over the event was evident before she even entered the circle. Her music reflected her decision and the feelings she has gained from Vaulting, and her passion showed as she encapsulated her signature moves within her program. Her experience, determination and hard work culminated in a third-place finish at her final event, 8.661, and the end of an era.
Rebecca Greggio and Davide Zanella upped their performance in today’s Pas-de-Deux competition, while remaining perceptive to the feeling and needs of their horse, Orlando Tancredi. “The bond that we have together, we also share it with the horse, and I think that together it is even deeper” said Davide, adding “It took some years to get to know the horse perfectly and how to help him with our freestyle which is not easy at all”.
Lunger Claudia Peterson earned the top horse score for the Pas-de-Deux competition today with 8.156, which, combined with their artistic and technique scores secured back-to-back win for the Italians.
Swiss pairing Li Laffer and Ilona Hannich chose to perform their routine to different music than in round one, returning to their 2023 theme around their friendship. A fitting end to their competitive career. They finished second, 8.356, vaulting atop Calin, lunged by Alana Sohm, who coped expertly in his first major event. With incredible joy and an elegant performance, the third place was also won by Switzerland, this time Zoe Maruccio and Syra Schmid (8.254). They learned from their round one error and barely put a foot wrong with Latino V Forst CH a trusty steed, lunged by Michael Heuer.
A spectacular weekend at the J. Safra Sarasin FEI Vaulting World Cup™ Final saw new records set and barriers broken. The calibre of horses was outstanding and combined with the passion of the athletes has left a lasting impression over the hearts of the people in Basel.
Charlotte Fry (GBR) and Glamourdale once again showcased their class, claiming their very first Les Trois Rois FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final victory with an impressive score of 88.195%. With nearly four percentage points of breathing room, the pair left no doubt about the outcome, taking unanimous first placings from all five judges. The podium order from the Grand Prix remained intact, with Isabell Werth (GER) and DSP Quantaz securing second place, and Isabel Freese (NOR) and Total Hope OLD completing the top three.
Following a convincing Grand Prix win the day before, Fry and the black stallion Glamourdale (owned by the athlete and Van Olst Horses) sealed the deal in Basel (SUI) in style. The reigning World Champion and Olympic Freestyle bronze medallist can now add the prestigious FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final title to her already glittering CV.
“This is very special. To win here today is absolutely amazing, and it felt like Glammie loved every second of it.”
Charlotte Fry
(GBR)
She extended her winning streak with this victory, having already claimed the World Cup freestyles victories in London (GBR), Amsterdam (NED), and ’s-Hertogenbosch (NED) with Glamourdale.
Isabell Werth (GER), riding second-last with DSP Quantaz (owned by Madeleine Winter-Schülze and Victoria Max-Theurer), came closest to challenging Fry. Scoring 84.365%, the German legend secured her third consecutive podium finish at a World Cup Final, having also placed third in Omaha (USA) and Riyadh (KSA). “Mission accomplished,” Werth laughed, having already stated ahead of the Final that second place was her realistic goal.
A second striking black stallion completed the top three: Total Hope OLD (owned by Lone Boegh Hendriksen, Oivind Bache and Paul Schockemöhle), ridden by Isabel Freese (NOR), made history by delivering Norway’s first-ever World Cup Final podium finish. Scoring 81.850%, Freese was visibly overjoyed: “I’m over the moon, this went beyond all my expectations!”
Shuffles in the midfield
While the top four remained unchanged, the rankings saw notable shifts from fifth place downwards. The action unfolded early in the evening in the beautifully dressed and atmospheric St. Jakobshalle in Basel. Kevin Kohmann (USA) guided Duenensee to a very credible performance, showing improved piaffe and passage work compared to the Grand Prix. Their 75.535% earned a place in the top 10. Just ahead of him was Pauline Basquin (FRA), whose Sertorius de Rima Z IFCE impressed in the trot tour but had some errors in the canter, scoring 77.055%.
Midway through the competition, Larissa Pauluis (BEL) entered with Flambeau and delivered a strong performance in her second World Cup Final, though a mistake in the one-tempi changes brought their score to 77.470%.
Immediately after, Bianca Nowag-Aulenbrock (GER) entered the arena and lifted the spirits with her chestnut mare. With ears pricked and a charming, crowd-pleasing Freestyle, the pair danced their way to 78.990% and a sixth place in their very first World Cup Final.
The 80% barrier breached five times
Defending champion Patrik Kittel (SWE) debuted a brand-new Freestyle with the mare Forever Young HRH, naturally featuring Alphaville’s iconic track ‘Forever Young’ to close. With a particularly expressive trot tour, they were the first combination to break the 80% barrier, posting 80.115% and ultimately finishing fifth.
Sandra Sysojeva (POL) and Maxima Bella charmed the audience with a stunning piaffe and passage tour. A mistake in the one-tempi changes and pirouettes, however, cost them, and their score of 78.590% saw them slip slightly from fourth in the Grand Prix to seventh in the Freestyle.
Meanwhile, Corentin Pottier (FRA), who had tied for fourth in the Grand Prix with Sysojeva, maintained his form. As the final rider of the evening, he and Gotilas du Feuillard delivered a polished performance, with a hiccup in the extended canter being the only flaw. Their 80.415% made them one of five combinations to break the 80% threshold.
Werth’s expertise shines
Just before Pottier, Isabell Werth entered the arena with DSP Quantaz. The seasoned competitor put her vast experience to good use, piloting the bay gelding expertly through a clean, accurate test to secure her 16th World Cup Final podium.
“Quantaz really improved from yesterday, so I’m completely happy. He was more open today; we had a good piaffe and passage tour. At the end, the crowd joined in – it’s great to feel the audience so into the competition,” said the most decorated Dressage athlete of all time.
Freese makes history for Norway
Isabel Freese wrote history in Basel with her third-place finish – Norway’s first World Cup Final podium. She beamed with pride after her ride on Total Hope OLD.
“Today everything came together. He was light to ride, I really enjoyed it. He was 100% with me and gave me an amazing feeling. This is what we work for every day. I had hoped for a top-five finish, but this is just incredible.”
Isabel Freese
(NOR)
Fry and Glamourdale dominate in harmony
But it was Charlotte Fry and Glamourdale who reigned supreme. With a Freestyle brimming with power, yet also elegance and lightness, Fry guided the stallion with great finesse to the sounds of iconic British hits.
“Yesterday, Glammie was definitely a little intimidated by the hall, but today he knew his job. He loves to have all eyes on him, and when the crowd joined in, he seemed to love it even more. This is all a team effort – with everyone at home at Van Olst Horses and all our supporters. Everything came together tonight, this is such a special feeling,” she said, still smiling in disbelief at the imposing Les Trois Rois FEI Dressage World Cup™, which stood just in front of her.
Image: FEI / Ben Clark
Germany, France and Italy lead the way after round one of the J. Safra Sarasin FEI Vaulting World Cup™ Final, after a morning of intense competition which saw Kathrin Meyer (GER) and Quentin Jabet (FRA) top the individual leaderboards and Rebecca Greggio and Davide Zanella (ITA) secure a round one win in the Pas-de-Deux.
Individual Female.
The Swiss have high hopes after round one of the Individual Female competition in Basel (SUI). Competing with Rayo de La Luz and Monika Winkler-Bischofberger, Nadja Büttiker impressed with her water-themed Technical program, scoring 7.874 and landing in third place. After an explosive program, also performed with Rayo de la Luz and Winkler-Bischofberger, Ilona Hannich upped the energy and gave the home fans even more to cheer about. She has a clear lead over her teammate, finishing second in the overnight standings (8.444).
However, vaulting with exactitude, defending Champion, Germany’s Kathrin Meyer stole the show. Performing last, aboard Capitain Claus OLD, she showed exactly why she has won the title twice already. Her technical elements were excellent and combined with high-level freestyle exercises, won her the top scores from all the judges, 8.848, comfortably clear of her competitors.
Unfortunately for the USA’s Kimberly Palmer, her horse Rosenstolz was not completely settled in the St Jakobshalle arena. Despite doing her best under more challenging conditions her performance was affected, and she had to settle for 5th (7.419).
Individual Male.
The top of the Male competition was full of creative personality. Germany’s Julian Wilfling was the first to truly dive into his distinctive exercises. Thrilling the judges, with Aragorn 102 and Alexander Zebrak he upped the artistic ante and posted a final score of 8.292, ultimately ending the round in third. Davide Zanella (ITA) then brought his flair. His costume perfectly tied together his concept and showing his style he scored over a nine artistically, placing second with Orlando Tancredi and Claudia Peterson, 8.448.
Not to be outdone, FEI Vaulting World Cup Final™ debutant, Frenchman Quentin Jabet, was near perfect in his Vaulting. Competing with a new combination - Goldjunge and Jaqueline Schönteich - his exercises and fluidity made up for a comparatively lower horse score, propelling him into a large lead after day one, with 8.990.
Last to compete in the Male competition, defending champion Jannik Heiland (GER) couldn’t keep up with Jabet. His young horse, Rey Rubino lunged by Lars Hansen, showed more energy, causing some loss of harmony for Heiland through the test. Along with a small error in an outside ground-jump he lost too many points, scoring 7.823 and taking fifth place.
Pas-de-Deux
There was drama in the Pas-de-Deux competition. The FEI Vaulting World Champions, Diana Harwardt and Peter Künne (GER) were finishing up a beautiful Freestyle when DSP Sir Lau Lau decided to stop. Lunger Andrea Harwardt was unable to move him on which hugely affected his horse score. Fortunately, with their tidy performance they were still able to score 7.832 and sit in fourth place.
Swiss combination Zoe Maruccio and Syra Schmidt also had an error at the end of their test. A lack of energy meant their final lift didn’t go to plan and they couldn’t complete their Free Test as planned. They took third place, 7.938, behind compatriots Li Laffer and Ilona Hannich, 8.258. Laffer and Hannich were first to compete with Calin and Alana Sohm. Their experience showed with clean execution and smooth transitions and wonderful showmanship.
It was defending Champions, Italian pair Rebecca Greggio and Davide Zanella, who won today’s competition. Despite altering their program mid routine in order to keep up a clean performance, responding to the cues of their horse Orlando Tancredi and lunger Claudia Peterson, they executed an interestingly dynamic routine and give themselves some breathing space with a 0.22 lead (8.477). They played it slightly safe to ensure they would be ahead going into tomorrow’s Final.
The round one winners are in a prime position for the Final, however with round two worth 60% there is still much room for change in the final standings, with the athletes and horses needing to be on top form once again to lift the coveted trophy.
Charlotte Fry and Glamourdale entered the Les Trois Rois FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final as one of the favourites, and they more than lived up to that status. A score of 77.152% sealed the victory in the Grand Prix, which serves as the qualifier for tomorrow’s Freestyle. Glamourdale once again impressed with his powerful canter work. Isabell Werth (GER), undoubtedly the most experienced athlete in the field, claimed second place with DSP Quantaz, closely followed by Isabel Freese (NOR) and Total Hope OLD in third.
Several top combinations had to go early in the impressive St. Jakobshalle arena in Basel, including Isabel Freese and Total Hope OLD. The striking black stallion has two former FEI Dressage World Cup™ winners as parents: Totilas as sire and Weihegold OLD as dam. Total Hope OLD (owned by Lone Boegh Hendriksen, Oivind Bache and Paul Schockemöhle) entered the arena with a tense halt, but grew into the test as it progressed. The score of 74.413% held firm for a long time and ultimately secured third place — the first ever FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final podium finish for a Norwegian combination.
“Total Hope is a real macho, but he learns quickly and is fantastic to ride. Today we lost some valuable marks at the beginning, but I’m very proud of the rest of our test,” said Freese.
Only Isabell Werth with DSP Quantaz and Charlotte Fry with Glamourdale managed to surpass that score later in the field.
Top combinations early in the running
The very first combination of the day also made a strong impression: Larissa Pauluis (BEL) and Flambeau (owned by Caroline and Emmanuel Lepage and Jean and Marie-Christine Pauluis) posted a nearly error-free test for 72.935%, which was eventually good enough for seventh place. “It hasn’t always been easy with Flambeau, but we kept believing in our dream, and here we are,” she smiled after her test.
One of the three American combinations also earned a top-10 placing before the break: Adrienne Lyle (USA) with Helix (owned by Zen Elite Equestrian Center). The long-legged chestnut grew in confidence throughout the test, scoring 72.565% and finishing ninth. Pauline Basquin (FRA) and Sertorius de Rima Z IFCE (owned by Institut Français du Cheval et de l’Équitation) followed just behind with 72.348%.
Mares steal the show
After the break, the energy in the arena quickly ramped up with many top combinations aiming for a place in the top three. Several mares stole the show, including Forever Young HRH (owned by the athlete and Gestüt Peterhof), ridden by reigning champion Patrik Kittel (SWE). He chose the elegant mare instead of last year’s winner, Touchdown, as his partner for the Final. With 73.130%, he came close, but a costly mistake in the two-tempis prevented a higher score. Kittel finished in sixth place. Directly after him, Bianca Nowag-Aulenbrock (GER) delivered an impressive Grand Prix with the chestnut mare Florine OLD (owned by Elisabeth von Wulffen), scoring 72.609% and taking eighth place.
Another mare who captured the hearts of the audience was Maxima Bella, ridden by Sandra Sysojeva (POL). The imposing black mare, who also competed in the Freestyle Final at the Paris Olympic Games, impressed with her piaffe and passage tour, earning a score of 74.283% and fourth place.
This was a tie for fourth place with Corentin Pottier (FRA), who rode the test of his life aboard the gelding Gotilas du Feuillard (owned by Maryse and Herve Pottier and Camille Judet Cheret). His 74.283% marked a new personal best, and as the final athlete of the day, his exceptionally correct and harmonious performance also won over the crowd.
Werth reaches her goal
Isabell Werth is riding her 26th FEI Dressage World Cup Final in Basel, and her third with DSP Quantaz (owned by Madeleine Winter-Schülze and Victoria Max-Theurer). She placed third in the Finals in Omaha (USA) in 2023 and fourth in Riyadh (KSA) in 2024. Earlier this year, she won both the Grand Prix and Freestyle in the World Cup qualifier in Basel. Her goal was to climb one place higher in the Final ranking this year, and with 74.848% in today’s Grand Prix, she managed just that, finishing second.
“I was very pleased with Quantaz,” she said with satisfaction. “The first two days here weren’t easy for him. He was very spooky and not focused. Today, as soon as I got on, he was more relaxed, and he stayed focused throughout the test.”
Fry impresses — but knows there’s more in store
As the twelfth to go, Charlotte Fry laid down a score with Glamourdale (owned by the athlete and Van Olst Horses) that no one could top: 77.152%. It wasn’t their highest score ever, but it was enough to take the win. The first piaffe, where the black stallion briefly hesitated, cost them some marks.
“Today he was definitely more impressed in here than he was in other arenas this World Cup season. I really had to give him quite some confidence today, but he trusted me. We had some amazing moments today, I’m very happy with the flying changes and with a lot of the trot work.”
Fry is looking forward to tomorrow evening’s Freestyle:
“I want to present everyone a beautiful freestyle and give Glamourdale every possibility to be as good as he can be. He is such a personality and a real showman.”
Charlotte Fry
(GBR)
All combinations through to the Freestyle
All combinations in today’s Grand Prix met the minimum score requirement of 60%, meaning we’ll see them all again in tomorrow’s Freestyle Final.
With such close scores at the top of the leaderboard, everything is still to play for in the Freestyle.
Competition in the Les Trois Rois FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final kicks off tomorrow at 19:30 CET — so don’t miss a hoofbeat!
Image: FEI / Ben Clark
Martin Fuchs (SUI) and his faithful friend, the 14-year-old gelding Leone Jei, took the honours on day two of the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Final in Basel (SUI) in front of an electric stadium full of fans after a thrilling jump-off. Max Kühner (AUT) and his long-term partner, the also 14-year-old Elektric Blue P, took second ahead of Alessandra Volpi (USA) with her sensational 11-year-old mare Gypsy Love. Day two of the competition saw athletes battle for supremacy in a 1.60m Table A Jump-Off class where only six of the 38 athletes came up with all the answers around an imposing first round track.
Thirty- seven athletes took to the St. Jakobshalle arena to face the first round of the second final competition. Starting in reverse order of standings following yesterday’s speed opener, the tension and excitement built throughout the night with pressure intensified for those sitting at the business end of proceedings, knowing how much was at stake, and theirs to lose.
Following his emphatic win in the opening speed leg, Julien Epaillard (FRA) came into tonight’s second final competition in pole position ahead of Ben Maher (GBR), hungry to add the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ trophy to his three Olympic Gold medals. World Cup Final debutant Lillie Keenan (USA) came forward in third position, benefiting from the expert mentorship of her coach McLain Ward (USA), himself a former World Cup champion and following his advice to the letter. Defending Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Champion from 2023 and 2024, Henrik von Eckerman (SWE) kept himself in touch with the leaders in fourth place reliant on the agility of his 2021 European Team Gold medalling partner Iliana.
Swiss course builder Gérard Lachat set a fitting test. His first-round track had athletes snaking around every inch of the technically demanding confines of the St. Jakobshalle arena which he had peppered with strategically placed fences and lines demanding of scope, agility, obedience and care.
Comprised of 14 fences and 17 vast jumping efforts, the course featured a combination with oxers on entry and exit, a curving short five-stride distance between a vertical and oxer, both fences set as Liverpools, coming off a difficult turn, followed by a line of a wide oxer followed by a flat five- strides down to a one- stride double with a delicate white plank on entry and another gaping oxer on exit. The final line was perhaps the most technical of all as a roll-back to an airy wall then left a range of distance options to a line of two oxers set on three strides adjacent to the exit, before an open turn at the top of the arena encouraging loss of straightness and balance which lead them to the final fence, a 1.62m vertical with just 3 short white poles which could again, be negotiated on six, seven or even eight strides.
The subtle technicalities of Lachat’s creative course building demanded total concentration, focus and seamless communication between athletes and their equine counterparts from start to finish.
As is customary on day two and three of the Finals, athletes started in reverse order of standings following the previous day’s competition, adding an element of mounting pressure as the class progressed. Eleventh into the arena, Daniel Coyle (IRL) showed the field how to negotiate the track when producing the first clear with the aptly named 12-year-old gelding Incredible. Five horses later a beaming Hans-Dieter Dreher (GER) and equally joyful looking Elysium, joined him and guaranteed a jump-off. At the half way stage they remained the only two athletes to have produced clears.
Max Kühner (AUT) and his faithful partner Elektric Blue P came up with all the answers shortly after the arena maintenance break and was soon joined by Alessandra Volpi (USA) who produced another eye-catching round with the 11-year-old mare Gypsy Love. This impressive combination were the first to have jumped clear on both day one and two.
The roof of the St. Jakobshalle arena was then raised as the partisan crowd got what they came for when their national hero, Martin Fuchs, aboard his Longines FEI European Championship 2021 Team Gold and Individual Silver medallist, Leone Jei, put yesterday’s heart-breaking single fault behind them to deliver the fifth clear of the class. The single fence down had cost them the win yesterday, but their quick time left them in tenth place going into this evening’s competition; the highest placed athlete not to have jumped clear in the opening speed class.
In an unprecedented turn of events, the next eight athletes, lying in second to ninth position in the overall standings after day one, failed to capitalise on their strong starts and deliver a faultless performance this time round. Amongst them were Jumping royalty Kevin Staut (FRA), Henrik Von Eckermann and Ben Maher, themselves all Olympic Gold Medallists amongst reams of other accolades. This left the door open for overnight leader Julien Epaillard (FRA), to tighten his grip on pole position.
Ever the competitor, Epaillard and his short-striding gelding Donatello d’Auge set out on the track that had played into the hands of their greater- gaited counterparts and confidently executed their own plan, adding strides down every one of the distances that had originally walked over five strides. Captaining his own ship, Epaillard and his homebred gelding sailed home without penalty once again to produce the sixth and final clear round.
Lachat’s jump-off track consisted of a series of unbalancing and disorientating turns, sandwiched between two long gallops. A miscommunication at the first fence put pay to Coyle’s chances of victory. Encouraged by an enthusiastic crowd, Dreher, having done the hard work, threw caution to the wind on the long gallop to the last. When the distance God’s weren’t on his side, he was forced to take a pull just before the final fence and paid the price with four faults in a quick time.
Kühner followed and pulled off a series of tight turns with a game Elektric Blue P to post the first double clear in a time of 42.32 seconds, despite not hitting his usual flowing rhythm. With the long game in mind and knowing a clear would propel her up the leaderboard, Volpi produced another classy round without fault in 45.78 to slip herself into second place with just two athletes remaining.
Feeding off the pressure to deliver to the sea of red and white flags adorning the stands of the St. Jakobshalle, Fuchs set sail from the outset, with a daring gallop to fence two enabling him to omit a stride and get ahead on the first split-time. A series of risky turns followed and Fuch’s “unicorn” matched his will to cleanly negotiate obstacles at speed with each breath-taking approach until they cleared the final oxer to rapturous applause and whistles of appreciation. A glance at the clock revealed the lead had changed hands and Fuchs sat in pole position with one athlete remaining.
Meanwhile however in another twist to the plot, backstage, Epaillard had been doing their maths. In a tactical move, pushing his competitive spirit aside temporarily, Epaillard had realised that none of the other five athletes in the jump-off could match his total points even if any one of them were to win tonight and he were to finish sixth.
With the nature of the competition seeing the points converted to faults going forward to day three via the application of a coefficient, he also couldn’t extend his lead any further by winning tonight. On this basis, with the ultimate goal of being crowned Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ champion in sight, he made the strategical decision to abstain from participating in the jump-off and keep Donatello d’Auge fresh for Sunday’s two round 1.60m decider. As the news was announced, the arena went wild once more at the realisation tat their own former Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ champion, Fuchs, was the winner of the second competition of their home Championship.
“Basel is such a fantastic show. In front of my home crowd, on my fantastic unicorn Leone Jei, it’s a really special victory! Usually, I have my plan set for the jump-off. I had two turns which were erm… quite risky! So, I’m pleased with the result, but not totally happy with myself and how I rode! I have to thank Leone!”
Kühner felt similarly as he explained “actually I feel the same as Martin. I’m happy with the result but not with my riding! It didn’t feel super smooth and I lost my stirrup on the turn to the wall, a little bit the balance and had trouble! I missed a little bit the last distance but thanks to Blue I managed it. It wasn’t as perfect as I wish it was, but it still turned out good! A lot to improve for Sunday and to study!”
Volpi has impressed in both days of competition and is now the only athlete to have contested all three rounds of competition thus far without lowering a fence. “I’m really happy with myself and my horse. I’ve blown my expectations for the week already without it being over” she beamed.
The 30 highest placed athletes after the first two competitions proceed to Sunday’s first round of the third Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Final competition. In the event of athletes not being able or choosing not to start, there will be no passing of places to athletes further down the line. Athletes’ points are now converted to penalties which will be carried forward for the rest of the competition. The overall leading athlete after amalgamation of points from the first two final competitions is awarded zero (0) penalties. All remaining athletes will be allocated penalties calculated by multiplying the difference between their total points and that of the leading athlete, by a coefficient of 0.50.
After the culmination of the second final competition of the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Final, Julien Epaillard remains at the top of the standings on zero (0) penalties. Fuch’s win tonight has seen his rocket up the leaderboard to sit in equal second with reigning champion Henrik Von Eckermann on two penalties apiece, whilst Kevin Staut, Lillie Keenan and Ben Maher lie in equal fourth on three penalties.
After Sunday’s first round, the 20 highest placed athletes will proceed to the second and final round, where the athlete finishing on the lowest score will be crowned the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ 2025 Champion.
Image: FEI / Ben Clark
Julien Epaillard and his homebred 12-year-old gelding Donatello d’Auge proved unbeatable once again as they stormed to the top of the leaderboard in the opening leg of the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Final in Basel (SUI) this evening. The flying Frenchman has evidently mastered the technical requirements of Basel’s St. Jakobshalle arena as he topped the podium here for the second time this year having taken victory of the cities’ Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ qualifying leg in January.
Gérard Lachat (SUI) set a strong but delicate track for the first of the three competitions that comprise the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Final. This competition is run as a speed class under Table C rules, where fences down are penalised by time added (three seconds for each fence lowered) rather than faults. Unlike the usual speed classes that athletes are accustomed to, this opening leg, whilst directly against the clock, is run over a Table A course, a full track with technically demanding lines and elements, set at 1.60m to place the emphsis on jumping rather than pure speed.
Lachat made use of light materials such as a delicate plank, short poles and airy fences with shallow cups and little to back horses off to ensure a true Jumping test was set for the stellar line up of athletes. Related distances were prevalent from start to finish of his 13-fence track meaning any lapse of athlete concentration or loss of rhythm proved costly.
The nature of the first day’s competition provides athletes with somewhat of a conundrum as they must weigh up the risks posed by the various elements of the day’s competition in its own right and as part of the overall championship that is the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Final.
Going too fast on day one presents athletes with the risk of their horses getting too quick and jumping flat ahead of the final two days of competition, each run over two rounds of 1.60m tracks where clean jumping is paramount. The winners of the past six Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Finals however, have all lead after day one, highlighting the importance of putting in a strong, and quick, performance in the opening competition. Each athlete therefore must develop a strategy and tactics to fit their horse.
Fourteen combinations returned with clean rounds of Jumping but it was a master tactician who lay down the gauntlet for the rest of the field from fourth draw of the 39 strong field. No stranger to developing a plan and executing it to the letter, defending Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Champion Henrik von Eckermann (SWE), did just that as he guided a spring heeled Iliana around the track without fault to set the standard in a time of 61.26 seconds.
Robert Whitaker (GBR) and his Helsinki winner Vermento sacrificed speed to negotiate all the fences safely without troubling the leader before Edouard Schmitz (SUI) set the St. Jakobshalle arena alight as he produced a foot perfect performance with Gamin van’t Naastveldhof to the delight of his home crowd. His time of 63.47 put him into second place and was good enough to secure an eventual ninth place.
The fourth and final clear round of the first half was produced by Pieter Devos (BEL) and his exciting ten-year-old Casual DV Z. The pair finished eighth in Riyadh (KSA) 12 months ago when the homebred mare was just nine years old. As they flowed around the track without breaking their rhythm and appearing totally at ease, they looked every bit a championship winning combination of the future. A time of 62.64 seconds was recorded which slipped them into second place at the half way stage.
German sensation Sophie Hinners opened the second half of competition with a classy round aboard her Verona winner Iron Dames My Prins. Keeping tight lines and an unfaltering rhythm they never appeared hurried but sliced off corners to clock a time of 62.56 and slot into second place. A costly back bar for Martin Fuchs (SUI) and Leone Jei denied the home crowd a Swiss lead, as their time of 60.54 seconds became 63.54 with the three seconds added and slipped them down the order.
Epaillard followed. Renowned for his speed and precision his intent was clear from the outset as he switched Donatello d’Auge into a formidable pace long before the start beams and hit cruise control. In his customary style, Epaillard stayed light in the saddle and let the agile gelding run and jump without interference, crossing the finish to rapturous applause from an appreciative audience as his time of 60.30 seconds saw him shoot to the top of the leaderboard.
Gregory Wathelet (BEL) and Bond Jamesbond de Hay delivered a strong challenge in 61.38 before Ben Maher (GBR) presented Epaillard with the biggest threat to his lead. Aboard the 11-year-old stallion Point Break, Maher, nursing a recently broken foot, masterfully negotiated the track in typically silky-smooth fashion to stop the clock just 0.13 seconds shy of Epaillard’s time and put himself onto the podium in second place.
Kevin Staut (FRA) put on a display of exemplary horsemanship as he strategically piloted an ever green 16-year-old Visconti du Telman around the course in total harmony to post a time of 61.33 which was good enough for eventual fifth place.
Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Final debutant Lillie Keenan (USA) made full use of her late draw as the stars (and stripes!) aligned for her and her relatively inexperienced 11-year-old stallion Kick on. They executed their round exactly as planned to post an impressively quick round in 60.69 seconds to take third place with only four athletes remaining. None of those however could better their performance so Keenan took the final podium position behind Julien Epaillard and Ben Maher.
Keenan was delighted with the performance of Kick on and full of praise for the stallion whom she says “has every quality you could dream of” in a horse.
“To be in the top three is very surreal. My coach McLain Ward is here, we walked a plan to win, but my horse is inexperienced at this level so I expected to have to improvise- but I didn’t need to! My first step now is to enjoy this moment, then reset, take a breath take it day by day and enjoy the ride”
Lillie Keenan
(USA)
Maher was modestly dismissive of the potential handicap presented by his broken foot, an injury sustained less than a week ago. Although struggling to walk, he is able to ride albeit with his stirrup “in a different position.” He was pleased with the performance and result today.
“Point Break felt confident and relaxed which is really important for him. There’s a long way to go but I’m really proud of him. It’s his first championship test and he feels ready.”
Epaillard was beaming after producing the perfect result on day one but tentatively added “I just hope I didn’t ask too much today, there’s a lot more fences to jump!” before praising the venue and his equine partner.
“I’m so proud, this horse is like family, he is so special to us” he told affectionately. “He loves it here; the ground is very good. He’s barefoot so good ground is very important for him”. When asked of his tactics for the following days of competition, Epaillard replied “try to be clear!” A sentiment shared by his fellow podium position holders!
The second competition of the 2025 Longines FEI World Cup™ Final takes place on Friday 4 April at 20:15 local time.
Image: FEI / Ben Clark
***Correction in red below***
Les Trois Rois FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final
Following a spectacular Opening Ceremony, the draw for the Les Trois Rois FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final 2025 took place this evening in the iconic St. Jakobshalle in Basel (SUI). Larissa Pauluis (BEL) and her Flambeau will be first down the centerline in Friday’s Grand Prix, while France’s Corentin Pottier with Gotilas Du Feuillard will bring the curtain down on the competition.
An impressive drum performance marked the start of the draw, adding to the sense of anticipation as the athletes gathered to discover their starting order. Divided into two groups, the athletes each played an active role in the draw, with a touch of traditional Swiss flair woven into the ceremony.
Reigning champion Patrik Kittel (SWE) had the honour of drawing the first name from the glass vases containing all athlete names. In a true passing of the torch, he selected Pauline Basquin (FRA), who in turn selected the next athlete, and so it continued. CHI Basel President Andy Kistler was on hand to draw the corresponding starting numbers. For Basquin, winner of the Madrid qualifier, that resulted in start number 7.
As a thoughtful gesture, all athletes received an engraved Swiss cowbell as a keepsake.
Second appearance for Pauluis, debut for Scholz
Opening the Grand Prix on Friday morning will be Larissa Pauluis (BEL), making her second FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final appearance after Riyadh last year. She will be followed by Carina Scholz (GER) and Soiree d’Amour, who are making their FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final debut.
A strong field of newcomers
In fact, no fewer than nine athlete-horse combinations will be making their debut in the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final this year:
• Carina Scholz (GER) and Soiree d’Amour OLD (start number 2)
• Isabell Freese (NOR) and Total Hope OLD (start number 3)
• Genay Vaughn (USA) and Gino (start number 6)
• Pauline Basquin (FRA) and Sertorius de Rima Z IFCE (start number 7)
• Anikó Komjáthy-Lozonczy (HUN) and Dior S (start number 8)
• Jessica Neuhauser (SUI) and Rockson (start number 11)
• Bianca Nowag-Aulenbrock (GER) and Florine OLD (start number 14)
• Sandra Sysojeva (POL) and Maxima Bella (start number 15)
• Corentin Pottier (FRA) and Gotilas Du Feuillard (start number 17)
Milestone appearance for Kittel, record run for Werth
Reigning champion Patrik Kittel is making his tenth appearance at the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final, although this time he partners Forever Young HRH rather than his 2024 winner Touchdown. Kittel will enter the arena in 13th position.
The most experienced athlete in the field, however, is none other than Isabell Werth (GER). Basel marks her 26th Final, and she will compete with DSP Quantaz, who already boasts podium finishes in both Omaha (USA) and Riyadh (KSA).
Australia’s Mary Hanna, at 70 years of age, is the oldest athlete in the line-up and will contest her sixth Final with Ivanhoe, starting 10th. Borja Carrascosa (ESP) returns with Sir Hubert NRW, just as he did in Riyadh, and will ride fourth. Likewise, Kevin Kohmann (USA) continues his partnership with Duenensee, drawing number 9. His compatriot Adrienne Lyle (USA) will compete in her second Final, this year with Helix as start number 5.
One to watch is Charlotte Fry (GBR), the youngest athlete in the field at just 29-years-old. The reigning World Champion will ride her Olympic bronze medallist Glamourdale in their very first FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final together. Starting 12th, Fry shared her excitement:
“Glammy and I had our first training in the main stadium today, he seemed to really like it in there! We’re both excited to get going on Friday! It’s our first Final together and I’m very much looking forward to it!”
Unfortunately, one combination was withdrawn prior to the vet check and draw: Renderson Silva de Oliveira (BRA) and Fogoso Campline will not compete in Basel.
What to expect
The Grand Prix on Friday serves as the qualifier for Sunday’s Freestyle to Music. All combinations scoring over 60% in the Grand Prix will earn a place in the Freestyle.
The judging panel for the Grand Prix consists of:
• Maria Colliander (FIN)
• Christof Umbach (LUX)
• Hans Voser (SUI)
• Michael Osinski (USA)
• Ulrike Nivelle (GER)
The Ground Jury Supervisory Panel (JSP) includes Andrew Ralph Gardner (GBR), Dr. Evi Eisenhardt (GER), and Liselotte Fore (USA).
A total of 17 combinations from 12 nations will compete for the coveted title of FEI Dressage World Cup™ Champion 2025.
Full start list can be seen here
Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Final
The order of play for tomorrow’s opening competition of the 45th edition of the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Final in Basel has been revealed following the draw to determine the starting order, which took place in the city’s St. Jakobshalle this evening.
It was a case of “déjà vu” for Germany’s Marcus Ehning, as for the second consecutive year the three-time FEI Jumping World Cup™ Champion was drawn in the unenviable position of first to go in what is his campaign to make history by becoming the first athlete to take the title four times. He will compete on on Coolio 42. Julien Anquetin (FRA) with Blood Diamond du Pont follow in second draw ahead of Omar Abdul Aziz Al Marzooqi (UAE) and Enjoy de la Mure who start in third.
Reigning Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Champion, Henrik von Eckermann (SWE) with Iliana is another protagonist drawn early in Thursday’s first competition as they start from fourth draw in his bid to emulate Rodrigo Pessoa (BRA) by winning his third successive title. Fifth drawn is Japan’s Takamichi Mashiyama and Highbrook's Messenger, ahead of Willem Greve (NED) and Highway TN N.O.P in sixth, USA’s Alise Oken with Gelvera and Kirsten Vanderveen with Bull Run's Jireh in seventh and eighth, whilst Ramzy Al Duhami (KSA) on Untouchable 32 and Valeria Sokolova (KGZ) on Jackpot TN complete the first ten athletes drawn in ninth and 10th respectively.
Robert Whitaker (GBR) and Vermento are the 11th combination into the St. Jakobshalle arena and are followed by Germany’s Richard Vogel (12th) on United Touch S and Mario Stevens (13th) with Starissa FRH. The host nation’s first athlete Edouard Schmitz and Gamin van't Naastveldhof are drawn 14th ahead of Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Final first-timer Shalva Gachechiladze (GEO) and Modest vd Vroente in 15th, Kaitlin Campbell (USA) and Castlefield Cornelious in 16th, Pieter Devos (BEL) and Casual DV Z in 17th and Andrea Herck (ROU) with Epsilon de Roulard in 18th. Nineteenth to contest Thursday’s opening speed competition is Austria’s Max Kühner and EIC Up Too Jacco Blue, who are followed by 20th drawn Shawn Casady (USA) and Cool Quarz.
Sophie Hinners (GER), another Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Final debutant, is drawn 21st with Iron Dames my Prins, and is followed into the arena by Switzerland’s own Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Champion from 2022, Martin Fuchs with Leone Jei who are drawn 22nd. Julien Epaillard (FRA) starts his bid to go one place better this year, having finished second in Riyadh (KSA) 12 months ago, behind the defending Champion Henrik von Eckermann. Epaillard is drawn 23rd in tomorrow’s opening competition, with Donatello d'Auge. Twenty fourth and 25th drawn are the USA’s Katherine Dinan on Out of the Blue SCF and McKayla Langmeier on Mimosa vd Rollebeek. Belgium’s Gregory Wathelet and Bond Jamesbond de Hay are the 26th drawn, ahead of triple Olympic Gold Medallist Ben Maher (GBR) and Point Break who start 27th, Hans-Deiter Dreher (GER) and Vestmalle des Cotis in 28th, Luke Dee (NZL) with Gangster WW in 29th and Ali Al Korafi (KUW)and I in 30th.
Kevin Staut with Visconti du Telman starts his campaign to give France their second ever Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Final title and first since 2004, from 31st draw. Allesandra Volpi (USA) and Gipsy Love is drawn 32nd ahead of double Olympic Individual Bronze medallist, Maikel van der Vleuten (NED) with Beauville Z N.O.P. who will be hoping to benefit from a late draw as he starts in 33rd. Bronwyn Meredith Dos Santos (RSA) on Bibisi is drawn in 34th ahead of the last drawn of USA’s eight qualified athletes, Lillie Keenan on Kick on in 35th.
Ales Opatrny (CZE) and Forewer are drawn 36th, and Kim Emmen (NED) with Imagine will start from 37th draw. Ireland’s Daniel Coyle and Incredible take the penultimate spot at 38, with Vince Jarmy (HUN) and Carbon Girl Z rounding off the roster to contend tomorrow’s Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Final first competition.
The first competition of the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Final 2025 in Basel is a speed class run under Table C, open to all 39 qualified athletes and begins at 20:15 local time.
Full start list can be seen here
J. Safra Sarasin FEI Vaulting World Cup™ Final
Individual Female
Individual Male
Pas-de-deux
The Vaulting starts on Saturday 5 April at 10:45am and concludes Sunday 6 April at 08:00
Full start list can be seen here
Image: Borja Carrascosa (ESP) during the draw at the FEI World Cup™ Finals 2025 in Basel (SUI). FEI/ Ben Clark
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